إِلَّا تَذْكِرَةً لِّمَن يَخْشَىٰ 3
Translations
But only as a reminder for those who fear [Allāh] -
Transliteration
Illa tazkiratan liman yakhsha
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah clarifies that the Quran is nothing but a reminder (tazkirah) for those who fear Allah and are receptive to guidance. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain that this emphasizes the Quran's primary function as a means of remembrance and admonition, particularly for those whose hearts are inclined toward piety and God-consciousness. The restriction to 'those who fear Allah' indicates that the Quran's benefit is conditional upon the listener's sincere desire for guidance and their reverence for the Divine.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the opening of Surah Taha, a Meccan surah revealed during the early Meccan period when the Prophet (peace be upon him) faced resistance from the polytheists of Mecca. The context addresses the purpose of the Quranic revelation itself—not to force belief upon those who reject it, but to serve as a reminder for the God-fearing. It establishes that the Quran's efficacy depends on the receptiveness of the audience.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best remembrance (dhikr) is La ilaha illallah (there is none worthy of worship except Allah)' (Tirmidhi). This relates to the concept of tazkirah (reminder) mentioned in the ayah, emphasizing how remembrance of Allah softens hearts and increases God-consciousness.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that the Quran's guidance is available to all, but truly benefits those who approach it with sincere fear of Allah and openness of heart. For modern readers, it encourages self-reflection on whether we receive the Quran as a genuine reminder that transforms our hearts, rather than merely reading it as a cultural or intellectual exercise.